‘I knew he liked me, and I like him.’

‘So he did propose?’

‘No, he didn’t.’

‘The silly fool.’ Molly rolled her eyes. ‘My Jack could teach him a thing or two about romance.’ She clapped her hands to her mouth. ‘I’m sorry, dear. That was thoughtless of me.’

‘As I’ve told you before, Molly, I’m very fond of Jack, but not in a romantic way.’

‘So how do you feel about Rob?’

‘I really don’t want to talk about it now. My ankle is aching and all I want is peace and quiet.’

‘I have to get back to the bar, but you need to have a long think, Judy. Rob is the best catch in the county, and you’d be a fool to turn him down if he ever makes you an offer.’ She left the room but poked her head round the door. ‘And he loves you. If you can’t see that you must be stupid.’

Later that day Rob called in at the pub, and Molly showed him into the parlour.

‘I came to see how you are,’ Rob said anxiously. ‘Molly said you’re in pain. I shouldn’t have kept you out so long, Judy. I’m sorry.’

‘Molly exaggerates. I’m fine now. I just need to rest the ankle.’

‘I’ve come to collect my things. As I told you, I have urgent business in London and I might be away for some time.’

‘You will be careful, won’t you? I know you said that Jay can’t do anything, but I don’t trust him.’

Rob took her hand in his. ‘You mustn’t worry. Everyone here is on the alert. Should he show his face again he’ll find himself in trouble with the police.’

‘I’m not worried for myself,’ Judy said impatiently. ‘It’s you who might suffer at his hands.’

‘Do you care what happens to me?’

‘Of course I do. How can you ask a question like that?’

Before Rob could answer Jack put his head round the door. ‘Rob, you’ll miss the train if you don’t come right away. We’re cutting it fine as it is.’

Rob straightened up. ‘We’ll continue this conversation when I return, Judy.’

‘Hurry up. The chaise is outside and we’ll only make it if you come now.’

‘All right, Jack. I’m coming.’ Rob hesitated in the doorway. ‘I’ve left funds for furnishing the gatehouse with McArthur.’

‘Just go, Rob. I’ll see to everything.’ Judy was not sure if she wanted to laugh or cry. ‘Please go now.’

‘Take good care of yourself, Judy.’

‘You let him go!’ Molly rushed into the room and stood arms akimbo. ‘What’s the matter with you, Judy? Did your experience with Jay turn your brain?’

‘What are you talking about?’ Judy asked wearily. ‘Rob has business in London.’

‘You should have let him know how you feel.’

‘You don’t know anything about it.’

‘I’m not the silly flibbertigibbet you think I am. I know that you’re pining for Rob and he’s in love with you. I could bang your silly heads together.’